The Best Bug Out Bags
So you've collected all your Emergency supplies but all you have is an old gym bag at the bottom of the closet to hold it all. Will it work? Maybe. Is there a better option? Definitely. We've put together a list of choices for you from the Best of the Best Bug Out Bag so you can make the right decision.
We've sorted it by size, largest to smallest. Lets check them out!
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The BEST BUG OUT BAGS - Our Top Picks
Kelty Coyote 80 Backpack 80-Liter
Typical Price: $200
Size: XX-Large
Specs: Our favorite pack for most. Inexpensive, lots of storage space, well-built, low profile. Bottom zipper for quick access to sleeping bag. Check out our full review of the older model here. Adjustable internal frame fits nearly all body sizes. Fairly water resistant but could use a rain cover. 420d polyester. 17"(L) x 34"(H) x 14"(W). Sometimes you can grab the older model for cheap on eBay.
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Freighter 80-Liter
Typical Price: $115
Size: XX-Large
Specs: We don't have this pack, but a few of our friends do and they love it. This is for those who need to carry a lot of stuff. Maybe too much stuff. Frame can be used independently of the pack for carrying game. Also allows a space for a rifle. Might be a little heavy for most. Materials used are not as resilient as we would like.
Eberlestock F4 Terminator Pack 67-Liter
Typical Price: $429
Size: X-Large
Specs: This pack is a beast. The king of all Bug Out Bags. Modular system with a configurable load bay. 1000d high strength nylon construction. Compatible with several types of scabbards. This will hold everything you could possibly want it to hold, and do it like a boss. Expensive but worth it. 12"(L) x 23"(H) x 10"(W).
5.11 RUSH 72 Backpack 55-Liter
Typical Price: $168
Size: X-Large
Specs: One of the most popular packs for a Bug Out Bags - great price to performance ratio. Easy to use, easy to pack. Lots of MOLLE options to add stuff to the outside. Comfortable yolk-style harness. Reinforced webbing and stitching throughout. Water repellant. Hydration pouch. My favorite feature is the "shove-it" pocket to stash wet stuff or a helmet. 13.5"(L) x 23"(H) x 8.5"(W).
Kelty Redwing 50-Liter
Typical Price: $125
Size: X-Large
Specs: A top pick for beginner Bag Builders. The Redwing 50 is a very popular and easy to find pack. Doesn't stand out in the crowd. Lots of external organizing options, and admin pockets. Can be top loaded or panel loaded. The bigger Kelty Coyote 80 gives you more space - see our comparison review here. This is typically the right sized pack for ladies.12"(L) x 26"(H) x 16"(W).
Condor 3 Day Assault Pack 50-Liter
Typical Price: $99
Size: X-Large
Specs: A moderately priced backpack. It's very popular and a lot of people swear by them, although I have some concerns about the durability and I think that $100 is better spent towards a more substantial pack. But to each his own. The design is great though and is very functional and serves well for a 72-Hour kit. 13"(L) x 22"(H) x 8"(W).
Hazard 4 Air Support 43-Liter
Typical Price: $249
Size: Large
Specs: Take the weight off your back with a tactical 1000D Cordura rolling duffel. Ruggedized wheels and base. MOLLE along the outside allows you to expand and organize. External Size: 22.8"(L) x 14.2"(W) x 9.1"(D).
Spec Ops T.H.E. Ultimate 40-Liter
Typical Price: $200
Size: Medium
Specs: 100% made in the U.S.A. Super tough 1000D Cordura nylon fabric. Extra large zippers. Heavy duty stitching. Built like a tank. Holds all the gear you could want and then some, and wont fall apart on you when you need it most. High viz interior. If you are going to pack more than 30lbs into it consider getting the T.H.E. Pack Frame.
Spec Ops Recon Ruck Ultra 37-Liter
Typical Price: $165
Size: Medium
Specs: A modern take on an old classic. ALICE pack styled pack with high-end materials and reinforce stitching. Made in USA and guaranteed for life. Removable harness if you want to attach to a standard issue LC-II ALICE pack frame. Accessory gear loops on the bottom. 1000d nylon fabric makes it bomb-proof. 10"(L) x 17.5"(H) x 14"(W).
Maxpedition Gyrfalcon Backpack 36-Liter
Typical Price: $200
Size: Medium
Specs: This is a serious pack. Very modular, easy to keep organized. Bottom of pack can be detached as a day bag/fanny pack. Removable and/or adjustable internal frame. Reinforced stitching, zippers and waterproofing makes this a tough bag to break. This is my next Christmas present, right Santa? 10.5"(L) x 22"(H) x 9.75"(W).
JanSport Driver 8 Core Series Wheeled Backpack 36-Liter
Typical Price: $109
Size: Medium
Specs: Backpacks can get heavy fast, especially when you are loading them up with emergency gear. And since most of us don't train with weight like that then having a backpack with wheels and a handle could be a lifesaver. Even if you are a tough-guy, having the option to not have to carry a pack around could be a relief. 21" (H) x 14" (L) x 10" (W).
5.11 Ignitor Backpack 35-Liter
Typical Price: $175
Size: Medium
Specs: Bomb proof backpack, as are all 5.11 bags. This is a super functional BOB with lots of expansion and organizational options. Works with the Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve. High quality materials and construction yet still lightweight. MOLLE attachments - add an Ignitor for a quick grab first aid pouch. 11"(L) x 21"(H) x 9.5"(W).
5.11 COVRT18 Backpack 32-Liter
Typical Price: $129
Size: Small
Specs: High quality low-key OPSEC sensitive pack. Padded laptop sleeve, hydration pocket, padded handle, CCW compatible. Comfortable padded straps for long-term wear. 500d nylon is durable and water resistant. We use it daily, see our comprehensive review here. 12.5"(L) x 19"(H) x 7.5"(W).
High Sierra Loop Backpack 29-Liter
Typical Price: $26
Size: Small
Specs: The best bang for your buck. Tons of space, well designed, low-profile. A wide variety of colors available. It has all the functions some of the high-end packs have for a tenth of the price. Our first choice for beginner Bug Out Bag Builders. Definitely a contender for your kids bags. 13.5"(L) x 19"(H) x 8.5"(W).
Maxpedition Falcon II 25-Liter
Typical Price: $130
Size: Small
Specs: See our full review here. One of the most trusted names in outdoor gear. Exceptionally well designed bag and copied by many other manufacturers. It can compress down to a small day bag size, or inflate out with 3 different levels of capacity. 10"(L) x 19"(H) x 8.5"(W).
